discern

IPA

Dictionary definition of discern

To perceive, recognize, or distinguish something with clarity, often through the use of one's senses, intellect, or intuition.
"His trained ear could discern the different musical instruments in the symphony."

Detailed meaning of discern

When we discern, we observe, comprehend, or identify something by carefully examining or analyzing it. 'Discern' involves the ability to perceive or understand subtle differences, nuances, or patterns in order to make informed judgments or decisions. It implies a level of insight, discrimination, or acuity that allows one to recognize and separate relevant details or information from the surrounding context. 'Discern' can also imply the ability to recognize the true nature, character, or essence of something, beyond superficial appearances. It often involves a deeper level of perception or understanding that goes beyond mere observation, requiring thoughtful analysis and interpretation. 'Discern' emphasizes the capacity to perceive or comprehend with clarity and accuracy, enabling us to make well-informed choices or draw meaningful conclusions.

Example sentences of discern

1. She strained her eyes to discern the distant figure in the fog.
2. With her keen sense of smell, she could discern the subtle notes in the fragrance.
3. It took a while for him to discern the hidden message in the cryptic crossword puzzle.
4. The detective had to discern the truth from the web of lies presented by the suspect.
5. The jury struggled to discern the defendant's true intentions based on the evidence.
6. Through careful examination, she was able to discern the counterfeit from the authentic artwork.

History and etymology of discern

The verb 'discern' is rooted in the Latin word 'discernere,' which is a combination of 'dis-' (meaning 'apart') and 'cernere' (meaning 'to separate' or 'to sift'). In its etymology, 'discern' conveys the idea of separating or sifting things apart with clarity and precision. It implies the ability to perceive, recognize, or distinguish something distinctly, often through the use of one's senses, intellect, or intuition. The term underscores the act of making fine distinctions and differentiations, highlighting the capacity to see and understand things clearly and accurately amidst complexity or ambiguity.

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Further usage examples of discern

1. The expert's experienced eye could discern the craftsmanship of the antique furniture.
2. The teacher could discern the student's confusion and offered additional guidance.
3. With practice, he learned to discern the subtle variations in color that others overlooked.
4. It took a discerning palate to discern the different spices in the complex dish.
5. As a writer, she had the ability to discern the underlying emotions in people's stories.
6. I could discern a faint scent of flowers in the garden.
7. She could discern the truth in his sincere eyes.
8. It's hard to discern the details in the dimly lit room.
9. The detective tried to discern a pattern in the clues.
10. With her keen vision, she could discern the distant mountains.
11. He struggled to discern the lyrics in the noisy concert.
12. It takes time to discern the subtle nuances of a foreign language.
13. The jury must discern the defendant's guilt or innocence.
14. Can you discern any changes in the patient's condition?
15. I can discern the excitement in his voice.
16. She could discern the melody from the jumble of sounds.
17. It's difficult to discern the truth amidst all the rumors.
18. The professor can discern even the tiniest errors in equations.
19. He couldn't discern her emotions from her expression.
20. I discerned a sense of urgency in her message.
21. It's essential to discern fact from fiction in this story.
22. The microscope helps scientists discern microscopic organisms.
23. You must discern the hidden meaning in the text.
24. She could discern the artist's signature in the corner.
25. We need to discern the best approach to solve this problem.